Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands are a Spanish archipelago in the western Mediterranean, comprising four main islands: Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. Mallorca is the largest and most developed for yachting, with a concentration of marinas and services available in Palma. Menorca is quieter and less commercial, with the deep natural harbour at Mahón among the finest in the Mediterranean. Ibiza and Formentera attract a seasonal cruising fleet drawn by clear water and numerous anchorages.

On Mallorca, Pollenca Old Town is a compact medieval town with a market square and narrow streets, known for the 365 stone steps of the Calvari rising to a small hilltop chapel. Cuevas del Drach, near Porto Cristo on the east coast, is one of the island's most visited attractions with a large cave system containing an underground lake. The Soller tram, dating from 1912, still operates and makes a fun day out from Port de Sóller up to the town of Sóller.

On Menorca, the military significance of past centuries remains evident. Fortress Isabell II occupies the eastern headland guarding the entrance to Mahón and is among the largest 19th-century fortifications in Europe, with extensive tunnels, gun batteries, and far-reaching views. The Fornells Tower is a well-preserved coastal defence tower completed in 1802 during the final period of British administration, and has several levels open to visitors. Castell de Sant Antoni dates from 1637 and guarded the entrance to Fornells Bay; partially demolished after the island passed to Spanish rule in 1782, surviving remains include underground passages and the base of one bastion.

On Ibiza, Mirador des Vedrà faces west across the sea to the limestone rock of Es Vedrà and is one of the most popular sunset viewpoints on the island.

Anchoring on Posidonia seagrass beds is prohibited throughout the islands and moorings must be used in protected areas. In the peak months of July and August, anchorages can be crowded, and booking marina berths in advance is recommended.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Cala Sa Calobra, Mallorca ★ 5.0 Mallorca Spectacular scenery surrounds this deep anchorage, ideal for a daytime visit. Multiple reviews highlight the need for strategic timing to avoid crowds. Anchoring is challenging in certain spots due to the hard gravel seabed.
	Cala Sa Nau ★ 5.0 Mallorca Cala Sa Nau features a lovely beach with a beach bar, but space for anchoring is limited. Visitors reported challenges finding suitable anchoring spots, particularly during high season. A small beach and lifeguard presence are mentioned as added benefits.
	Cala Pregonda ★ 5.0 Menorca This anchorage features two main beaches and an excellent sandy seabed for anchoring. It is exposed to north winds and has room for several boats. Nighttime offers quietness despite daily busyness, with no facilities available ashore.
	Punta Grossa ★ 5.0 Ibiza Surrounded by towering cliffs, this anchorage offers clear water with a visible sandy bottom for anchoring. Visitors noted gusty winds and swell from the southeast, but the area remains tranquil after local boaters depart in the evening. Internet access is limited, requiring a climb for a signal.
	Cala Mitjana ★ 5.0 Mallorca Anchoring at this location can be challenging due to size limitations. Visitors recommend securing boats with stern lines to avoid tight conditions. Beautiful scenery enhances the experience, noted by multiple reviews.
	Cala Es Camp de Mar ★ 4.8 Mallorca Sheltered anchorage with sandy patches reported for good holding. A nearby supermarket enhances convenience for visitors. The area tends to be calm, providing a pleasant environment for activities like paddleboarding.
	Cala Algaiarens ★ 4.8 Menorca A spacious anchorage features sandy seabeds and clear water. Visitors enjoy the natural surroundings, with opportunities for swimming and exploring nearby trails. Beaches lack facilities, and access by dinghy requires caution in certain areas.
	Cala D'Hort ★ 4.8 Ibiza Anchoring conditions are favorable with good holding in sandy areas. Many visitors appreciate the stunning views and sunsets, although some report issues with crowding and swell alignment in busy times. Dining options are available near the beach.
	Cala Charraca ★ 4.7 Ibiza Anchoring conditions are mostly favorable with sandy areas available among the large bay. Visitors report good holding in various depths and pleasant swimming, although jellyfish can deter swimming at times. The location is generally calm and offers simple access to facilities.
	Cala Llonga ★ 4.7 Ibiza Beautiful anchorage with good holding in sandy areas. Limited gusty winds can occur, and local ferries may cause discomfort at times. Amenities include supermarkets, restaurants, and hiking trails, contributing to a pleasant experience for visitors.

Show more

Marinas

	Club nautico de Ciutadella (Menorca) ★ 5.0 Menorca Facilities are well maintained with excellent assistance for mooring. Visitors highlight the affordable rates for a 14 meter catamaran, which includes electricity and water. The city exhibits a lovely Moroccan influence, enhancing the overall experience.
	Port de Ciutadella ★ 5.0 Menorca A very sheltered and calm marina offers easy booking procedures for guests. Formalities are quick, and staff interaction is friendly. Key amenities such as clean showers are located nearby, although major supermarkets are a distance away.
	Club de Véla Port D'Andratx ★ 4.7 Mallorca Facilities are well-maintained, with friendly staff noted by multiple Reviews. Marina services include access to showers and a swimming pool. The location offers a safe anchorage, but caution is advised during winter storms.
	Ports IB Fornells ★ 4.6 Menorca Staff interaction is praised as friendly and helpful. Facilities are modern and clean, with electricity and water included in the rate. The harbour is well sheltered, though some reviews mention potential dust from ongoing renovations.
	Marina de Bonaire ★ 4.6 Mallorca The marina features friendly staff and basic facilities that are perceived as sufficient. Visitors appreciate the quiet surroundings and access to enjoyable coastal walks, though there are limited activities nearby.

Show more

Moorings

	Ports IB Badia Fornells (Menorca) ★ 5.0 Menorca Mooring buoys are available for various durations and sizes. The bay is well-protected, making it ideal for boat maintenance. The local area features charming dining options and active recreational activities, enhancing the overall experience.
	Porto Petro ★ 4.6 Mallorca This mooring area features well-maintained buoys, with prices around 30 to 35 euro per night for a 40-foot catamaran. Visitors report a charming village with easy shore access and numerous restaurants available. Be cautious, as anchoring is difficult due to weeds.
	Port Cabrera (Cabrera) ★ 4.6 Cabrera Mooring buoys are available and must be booked in advance. The bay is described as calm and well sheltered, with easy access to guided walks and historical sites. Overnight stays require reservation, and anchoring is not permitted.
	Ses Illetes ★ 4.5 Formentera Gentle sandy anchorage provides good holding and protection from strong winds. Visitors have noted a lack of mooring buoys before mid-May and the absence of local amenities such as restaurants or supermarkets. Be mindful of the shore's litter.
	Club Nautico Porto Colom ★ 4.5 Mallorca Mooring buoys are available for various boat sizes, with rates such as €32 for a 40ft catamaran and €19 for a 10m boat noted. Friendly staff assist in picking up moorings, though shower facilities are basic and primarily intended for club use.

Show more

Harbours

Mahon ★ 4.3 Menorca Mooring options include floating pontoons, with fees reported as high as 115 €/night for larger vessels. Visitors mention the option to anchor for up to three days near the pontoons at Isla del Rei. Water services are provided on-site at the marina.

Boat services

Below are the most popular and highly rated boat services, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Chandlers

	Vivelmar a Fondo S.L.U. ★ 5.0 Menorca Service capability includes assistance with anchoring and technical problems. Staff are helpful and provide local sailing knowledge, with multiple Visitors mentioning strong support during challenging circumstances. Recent Reviews indicate continued operational status and expertise in the sailing community.
	Nautichandler ★ 5.0 Mallorca Nautichandler is operational and has a significant stock including strong brands. Visitors reported great service and immediate availability of required items. Staff interactions are highlighted as positive.
No image	AD Nautic Mao ★ 5.0 Menorca Access by car is advisable for this chandlery. It is located close to archaeological sites, making it convenient for visitors combining shopping with sightseeing. The website offers online shopping and mentions free delivery across the island.
	Nautica El Cano Tienda ★ 4.8 Mallorca Service availability includes ordering parts for boats, with some reports of delays in communication. A well-stocked shop offers various boat items, including engine parts. Staff are noted to assist in ordering specific parts when not in immediate stock.
	Pedro‘s Boat Centre ★ 4.8 Menorca Staff members are noted for being super helpful and the shop is well stocked. Many items are available, and they can obtain missing items from another store if required. Some visitors reported concerns about gas bottle compatibility with other countries.

Show more

Useful yacht clearance links:

Yacht clearance reviews

The following lists summarize noforeignland user reviews for clearing in at ports of entry and when using clearance agents in Spain: